Special to The Laker/Lutz News

By Sarah Whitman

Senior Staff Writer

Menopause is a common term for when women’s hormones begin to change, usually around middle age.

Andropause is less known.

“Andropause is the medical term for the changes men go through when they experience a decrease in their sex hormones,” said Dr. Stephanie Bien, aging specialist. “It’s a subtle process that can result in anything from a loss of energy to low sex drive. It can start as early as age 40.”

Bien, whose office is in Wesley Chapel, works with men going through the change. She offers a comprehensive exam to determine the best treatment.

“I take blood tests, then look at medical and family history before making a diagnosis,” she said. “I look at all the information and determine what I can do to help.”

Everything from diet and exercise to testosterone shots can treat the symptoms of andropause.

Dave Newton, 42, of Land O’ Lakes, began seeing Bien two years ago.

“I felt run down all the time,” Newton said. “Dr. Bien found that my testosterone levels were low. She put me on injections and altered my diet. Within 45 minutes of my first shot, I could already feel my energy increasing.”

Bien said more and more men are seeking out treatment for andropause. Still, not all men are willing to be open about the symptoms.

“Andropause is a real condition and men shouldn’t be uncomfortable talking about it,” she said. “An estimated 13 million men suffer from testosterone deficiency but only 10% receive treatment.”

Netwon wasn’t afraid to approach Bien for help.

“My daughter was two-years-old at the time and I wanted to find out what was wrong so I could feel better and be there for her,” Newton said. “I was researching online and found Dr. Bien’s website. The symptoms sounded like what I was experiencing, so I made an appointment. The benefits have been great.”
Bien said diet and lifestyle play a major role in the aging process. Eating high fat and processed foods can worsen the symptoms of andropause.

Newton was eating too many sweets.

“The tests showed my insulin levels were really low, which was because of how much sugar I was eating,” he said. “Since seeing Dr. Bien, I’ve definitely changed my eating habits and I’m on a vitamin regimen. It’s worked out really well.”

Bien works with patients to formulate individual-based nutrition plans.

“The benefits of nutrition and supplements often gets overlooked in the medical profession,” she said. “The body works best when it gets the nutrients needed to support it.”

Newton now has the energy to work out at the gym.

“My wife and I both go,” he said. “My daughter even loves to go with us.”

Dr. Bien is currently accepting new patients. The initial comprehensive exam takes five hours and includes physical and psychological tests.

Dr. Stephanie Bien’s office is located at 2718 Windguard Circle, suite 102, in Wesley Chapel. For information or to set up an appointment, call (813) 388-6865.

By Sarah Whitman

Senior Staff Writer

When Roy Naccour bought J.Joseph’s Salon three years ago, he had a dream of bringing fantastic hair to Land O’ Lakes. Now, he’s ready to make beauty his business from head to toe.

J.Joseph’s has expanded to include the space next to its original location, 5132 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. The salon now offers facials, body wraps, massage and more in a full-service spa.

Other departments, such as hair, nails and make-up are also new and improved.

“We’ve grown so much and so fast since opening, we had to expand,” Naccour said. “It’s a dream come true.”

J.Joseph’s expert staff now has more room to work. The new space is decorated with J.Joseph’s signature European flair. One side of the room is set up for cut, color and style, the other for manicures and pedicures.

Behind a frosted glass door are two comfortable spa rooms, designed to help clients relax while the stresses of the day fade.

Five trained technicians will work the new spa using GM Collin products. Clients can enjoy a warm body wrap; then rinse the mud off in a luxurious shower.

Debbie Richy, of Land O’ Lakes, is a J.Joseph’s regular.

“I’m definitely going to use the spa,” she said. “I’m most interested in getting a facial and massage.”

Richy said she frequents J.Joseph’s because of the atmosphere.

“I like J.Joseph’s because they’re professional and current with everything they do,” she said.

Nail technician Rosetta Bell thinks clients will continue to respond enthusiastically to the changes.

“I think a spa like this is something Land O’ Lakes needed,” she said. “It’s an escape from everyday life. When you’re here, you can forget where you are. I think it’s going to make a big impact and be really busy soon. I’m excited.”

Ashley Ballard is J.Joseph’s resident make-up artist. She said the expansion is good news for everyone.

“By expanding we have more room to accommodate clients,” Ballard said. “We’re also making advancements. In make-up we’re using a whole new line, Mirabella.”

Naccour doesn’t take the credit for J.Joseph’s success. He said it is the result of a well-educated staff working together to deliver excellent customer service. He only hires trained professionals who are outgoing and personable.

“A lot us travel oversees to continue our education,” he said. “We went to Paris for a hair show last year and next year we’re going to Italy.”

Naccour was born in Lebanon and studied in Sweden before moving to Florida. He chose Land O’ Lakes because he liked the area and the people.

“We care a lot about the community,” he said. “We participate in a lot of fundraisers and events.”

When asked what clients can expect from the newly expanded J.Joseph’s Salon & Spa, Naccour doesn’t hesitate.

“It’s an experience,” he said. “That’s all I have to say.”

For information on J.Joseph’s Salon or to make an appointment, call (813) 235-6848. For pricing and services offered visit, www.jjosephsalon.com.

Multiple reasons cause budget shortfall

By Kyle LoJacono

Staff Writer

In an economic climate where people are trying to save every penny, Tampa Bay Water is proposing an 8 percent rate increase for water.

The possible increase, which would not take effect until October, would equate to a $1.52 a month for a typical family, or $18.24 a year.

“We use that as an estimation because the average family of four uses about 8,000 gallons each month,” said Michelle Rapp, Tampa Bay Water spokeswoman. “The increase is still being discussed and will be presented to our board of directors on April 19. They will evaluate our budget and then vote on it June 21.”

The nine-member board consists of politicians from Pasco, Hillsborough and Pinellas counties. One of those members is Pasco Commissioner Ted Schrader.

“I’m reluctant to approve the raise in price,” Schrader said. “As we’ve become more efficient with our spending in the county, so should they. I’d want to see them cut as much as they can before raising prices, so I’m not ready to commit to the increase now.”

Schrader is from Pasco District 1, which covers all of Zephyrhills, Dade City, much of Wesley Chapel and some of northern Land O’ Lakes. He has been on the board since 2000.

“In the past we’d used 100 percent ground water to provide water for the Tampa Bay area, which is our cheapest form or water,” said Koni Cassini, Tampa Bay Water director of finance and administration. “Now we are expanding our surface water use and our budget is being cut by about 7 percent. We’ve cut our expenditures by about $500,000, but that hasn’t made enough difference.”

Cassini said the budget for 2010-11 dropped from $176 million to $163 million. Tampa Bay Water responded by eliminating three staff positions for the next fiscal year.

The switch from mainly ground water to surface water and desalination has increased the regional utility’s costs at a time when its budget is shrinking. But the main reason for the potential budget shortfall is the decreased demand for water, the agency reports.

“People’s conservation has been part of the case, but it’s not all because of that,” Cassini said. “We have also seen a decrease because of the very wet winter. People don’t need to water their lawns or plants because of the recent weather. On top of that the down economy has unfortunately led to many foreclosures and obviously those houses aren’t using any water either.”

Both Schrader and Southwest Florida Water Management District executive director Dave Moore agreed with Cassini reasons as to why the demand for water has decreased.

Tampa Bay Water was formed in 1998 to provide water for the three counties and also for the cities of New Port Richey, Tampa and St. Petersburg.

The agency’s six members buy water together, fund the development of new supplies, share in environmental stewardship and pay the same wholesale water rates, reports the utility’s Web site, www.tampabaywater.org. It provides about 186 million gallons of water each day.

“We are an extension of the member government and are a nonprofit,” Rapp said. “We only pass along our costs to the consumer. We don’t make money beyond what it takes to fund our facilities.”

The increase in price would likely cause people to conserve water even more.

“We know that about half the water used in Florida is used outside,” said Pasco County Extension director B.J. Jarvis. “It comes down to choosing the right plants for the right locations…It’s also important to turn off automatic sprinkler systems after it rains because that not only wastes water, but can also kill the plants.”

Zephyrhills man needs your help to become the next ‘Biggest Loser’

By Sarah Whitman

Senior Staff Writer

At 464 pounds, Zephyrhills resident Ken Gezelman is ready to tackle his biggest enemy: Obesity. He hopes to do so on the reality television show, “The Biggest Loser,” where contestants battle it out to lose the most weight.

The Facebook page “Help get Ken Gezelman on The Biggest Loser” has more than 1,100 fans.

“I’ve had a weight problem all my life and I’m ready to change,” Gezelman said. “I want to be on the show because I’m ready to give up my old habits. It’s scary, but it wouldn’t be a challenge if I wasn’t scared.”

Gezelman, 41, grew up in Addison, Mich. where he said bullies berated him for his size. Both his parents were overweight and family dinners consisted of greasy foods, making it difficult for a young man to stay fit.

Gezelman was 250 pounds when he graduated high school.

“I got picked on a lot, so I had to develop a tough exterior,” Gezelman said. “I became the funny fat guy.”

Gezelman worked odd jobs out of high school, including teaching line dancing. He moved to Zephyrhills in 1999 and soon after went to work as a custodian in the Pasco County school system. He has slowly gained more and more weight.

He has had girlfriends, but said being obese makes it difficult to maintain a serious relationship.

“I’ve always pictured myself married with children but that hasn’t happened because of my weight,” Gezelman said. “It’s definitely a factor when I date.”

Gezelman remembers one date in particular.

“It was at Universal Studios and we went on a water ride,” Gezelman said. “When I went to get off the ride, I couldn’t. I was stuck. Twenty logs backed up behind me while I fought to get out of the ride. It was one of my most embarrassing moments. The woman I was with said she didn’t mind, but I knew it bothered her.”

Gezelman loves roller coasters but can no longer ride them. The seatbelt in his truck doesn’t fit around his waist. His work uniforms won’t button. He has stopped line dancing. He takes medication for diabetes and high blood pressure.

“At this point, it’s a health issue,” he said.

He has attempted to lose weight in the past but has gained it back. A few years ago, he lost 88 pounds; then went back to unhealthy eating and gained back extra pounds. He said food has always been an issue.  He likes to cook and he works nights as a plant manager for West Zephyrhills Elementary, so he eats late.

“Ken has really struggled with his weight,” said West Zephyrhills principal Emily Keene. “He’s tried so many things to lose it, like doing diet programs with the teachers here at the school. This show could be his chance and he’s got the support of the school. Everyone wants him to succeed.”

Gezelman decided to try out for “The Biggest Loser” after watching season eight.

“I was astounded by the contestants and the amount of weight they lost,” he said. “I went to the Tampa auditions and wasn’t automatically picked but they said to send in a video. So, I made a video. They said they wanted contestants to offer something different, which was where I got the idea for the Facebook page and bringing a fan base with me.”

Gezelman’s roommate Denise Fackender is one of many cheering on her friend.

“Ken is the best hearted person I’ve ever met,” Fackender said. “I think he would be great on the show. He truly needs the help. He deserves it.”

The Biggest Loser is known for helping contestants lose drastic amounts of weight. Last season’s winner Danny lost 201 pounds.

“I want to lose at least 200 lbs,” Gezelman said. “I think I can do it.”

The show pairs contestants with professional trainers, health experts and cooks who make losing weight less complicated. Contestants work out rigorously and compete in challenges. Each week, the competitors who lose the least weight are in danger of elimination. The contestants vote to send one person home until the finale, when the winner walks away with $250,00, a new body and a new outlook on life.

“I’m nervous about cutting it on the show, about not being able to lose the weight and letting my supporters down,” Gezelman said. “I’ve been going to the gym to work up my stamina so I’ll be ready.”

Gezelman exercises at The Local Gym in Zephyrhills.

“The community has given me so much support,” Gezelman said. “We started a written petition with signatures for people just in Zephyrhills and I have over 300 signatures from people who want me to make it on the show.”

Fackender thinks he would be a season 10 favorite.

“He’s such a great guy,” she said. “He’s charismatic and funny. He charms people.”

Keene agrees.

“He’s such a kind man and he’s always willing to help others,” she said. “He deserves to be on the show.”

Gezelman said the show hasn’t announced when producers will decide on season 10 contestants. He hopes to know soon. Whether or not he makes it, he intends to lose the weight.

He has dreams of riding roller coasters, dancing until sunrise and sharing his life with someone special.

“There are so many things I want to do but can’t because of my weight,” he said. “I want to lose the weight to see my dreams come true.”

To support Ken, become a fan on his Facebook page.

By Sarah Whitman

Senior Staff Writer

One thing’s for sure, there’s no shortage on Easter eggs this year.

So tell the kids to grab a basket and get going. It’s time to hunt.

First United Methodist Church of Land O’ Lakes, 6209 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., has a free egg hunt from 10 to 11:30 a.m. April 3. The event will include a petting zoo, a cupcake decorating table, games, snacks and a family sack race.

Children will be divided into age groups for the main event.

“There will be over 1200 eggs and the big kids won’t be hunting with the little ones,” said Tonya Stout, director of children’s ministries. “The kids will collect eggs and turn them in for a goody bag filled with candy and prizes. It’s better that way because we can have chocolate candy and it doesn’t melt.”

Children may be surprised to find three golden eggs mixed in the bunch.

“They can be traded in for a special prize,” Stout said. “There will be three for every age group.”

Close by on US 41, families are invited to a jellybean jamboree and spring harvest from 10 a.m. to noon at the Land O’ Lakes Community Center, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. There will be an egg scramble for children 10 and under, children’s games, a moonwalk and a visit from the Easter bunny. The spring harvest will feature vendors from the Land O’ Lakes Saturday Market, craft vendors and other booths. Admission is free.

“This is our first year combining our farmer’s market and the jelly bean jamboree,” said Mike Walcott, recreation supervisor at the community center. “There will be lots of things to do and see. The vendors will have games for the kids and be handing out candy. There will be things for adults too.”

Lutz residents will want to stop by Keystone Community Church, 21010 State Road 54, for an extravaganza, also beginning at 10 a.m. April 3. The event combines the spiritual message of Easter with popular holiday traditions.

“There’ll be a small service for the kids then an egg hunt, face painting, hot dogs and popcorn,” said Cathy Wirt, ministry coordinator. “It’s a day for fellowship and fun.”

There’s more fun at the Museum of Science and Industry, where eggs will be hunted, dropped and catapulted beginning at 9 a.m. for children 13 and under. The egg drop is at 10 a.m., the toss at 11 a.m. and the DaVinci inspired catapult at noon. All events will be supervised. Eggspo is included with general admission to MOSI.  There will be sweet treats for free.

In Wesley Chapel, Victorious Life Church will host three egg hunts from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 3 at Angus Valley, Pasco Woods Apartments and the Shops at Wiregrass. Take pictures with the Easter bunny, search for eggs and enjoy a story time featuring some of Aesop’s famous fables at Wiregrass.

“We’ll have 76,000 eggs spread out through all three events,” said Devon Dougherty, outreach coordinator. “They will all be candy filled.”

For parents worried about their kids getting too many sugary snacks, why not take the family to a different kind of egg hunt. Lowry Park Zoo will hide eggs for its orangutan to find at 11 a.m. April 2. The annual event is included with zoo admission.

So, go on, make this Easter great and spend it with your neighbors. Just don’t forget your baskets.